AN Oxfordshire beer maker has been crowned a 'hidden gem' in the country's national tourism awards.

Hook Norton Brewery won the title for the South East at the VisitEngland Visitor Attraction Accolades.

Oxford's MINI plant, meanwhile, was crowned Best Told Story in the region for its behind-the-scenes tours, while the city's Oxford Official Walking Tours were also awarded.

Read again: Hundreds seek Brexit-proof jobs at Mini careers fair

Hook Norton Brewery, in the West Oxfordshire village, describes itself as a 'major tourist destination' offering visitors brewery tours, a free village and brewery museum, gift shop and a Malthouse Restaurant that also caters for private parties and weddings.

Celebrating its 170th anniversary this year the brewery has expanded its visitor attractions alongside its five-storey Victorian tower brewery.

Managing director James Clarke said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive this award.

Read again: The best pubs in Oxford have been announced

"We are so lucky to have a wonderful brewery site, in a stunning location, and welcome lots of visitors throughout the year, to learn about brewing and sample beers, to see the amazing Victorian engineering, and of course our working shire horses.

"This award recognises all the hard work our team put in to make sure a visit here is one to remember."